Introduction to Traverse Walls
We are delighted to share the successful installation of a wooden traverse wall at Wemms Education Centre in Surrey. This case study provides an overview of the entire project, starting from the initial phone call to the free site survey, design and installation phases. We will also discuss the materials used and highlight the numerous benefits of incorporating a traverse wall in school playgrounds.
Initial Phone Call
When the school contacted us, we engaged in a discussion about available options and offered a complimentary site survey. We understand the value of meeting face-to-face on-site, enabling us to assess the area where the traverse wall would be installed.
By completing a free site survey, we eliminate the pressure on customers to provide measurements, photos, and assume project responsibility. Additionally, we can address any questions and concerns the customers may have.
Over the years, we have come across several frequently asked questions, which we would like to address:
How much do traverse walls cost? The cost of a traverse wall depends on its length and complexity. For more detailed pricing information, please refer to our traverse walls page.
Are traverse walls safe? Absolutely! Our traverse walls are designed specifically for use in schools and are equipped with smooth wood, recessed screws, and non-toxic holds, ensuring safety for children.
How high can children climb on the wall? We make sure that the foot holds on our traverse walls are no higher than 599mm from the ground unless a safety surface is specified. This eliminates the need for mandatory safety surfacing.
What are the walls made of? Our traverse walls are constructed from pressure-treated wood, which is guaranteed to resist rot and insect infestation for 10 years. when combined with steel feet. The climbing holds are made from non-toxic resin with reinforced areas where they are fixed to the wall with bolts/screws.
Do you provide guarantees? Yes, we offer a 10-year guarantee on all our timber against rot and insect infestation when combined with steel feet, and a 1-year guarantee on the holds against breakage.
Site Survey and Overview
We conducted a thorough survey at Wemms Education Centre to evaluate the suggested location for the traverse wall. In 99% of cases, this process goes smoothly. However, sometimes we identify factors that might be overlooked and could potentially cause issues in the long run.
We are pleased to report that the ground conditions at the proposed site were ideal, with soft earth and grass and no stones. Additionally, there was an abundance of space available, far exceeding the requirements for a playground climbing wall.
Access to the area was excellent, and we could easily cordon it off for safety during the installation process if needed. We understand the excitement children feel when a climbing wall is being installed at their school, so we always consider safety measures to ensure their well-being.
There were no other obstacles around the climbing wall that would interfere with its use. Sometimes, overhanging trees or sub-surface services can be overlooked, but we meticulously checked for any potential issues. The spoils, or excavated material, could be disposed of on-site, eliminating the need to hire skips for removal.
All in all, the location at Wemms Education Centre proved to be perfect for a traverse wall installation.
Planning and Preparation
Following our meeting at the school, we prepared a detailed quotation that outlined the various costs, including installation. Our design team also created scaled drawings, incorporating a personalized touch by adding the school name across the top of the wall.
Given that this traverse wall was designed for young children, we ensured that the climbing holds were suitable and appropriately spaced.
Installation
The installation process for a playground traverse wall is relatively straightforward compared to our more complex playground equipment, which often requires extensive groundworks. The holes were accurately marked out and excavated. Once the climbing wall posts were securely concreted into place, the panels were attached using recessed screw fixings to prevent any risk of children catching their hands on them.
We meticulously checked the wall to ensure that all posts were level and secure before planning out the placement of the hand and foot holds.
How is the Traverse Wall Used?
Children traverse across this type of climbing wall from left to right or right to left, unlike the upward ascent seen in climbing centres. That's why these walls are also referred to as traverse walls.
Why Choose a Traverse Wall for Schools? For schools, we highly recommend traverse walls over climbing walls that go upwards. Here's why:
Safety: Children remain close to the ground, reducing the risk of injury if they fall, slip, or jump off.
No Specialized Equipment: Traverse walls do not require specialized climbing equipment like harnesses or belay systems, making them accessible to all students without the need for additional training.
Easy Maintenance: Routine maintenance and checks on the holds can be easily completed by someone standing on the ground, ensuring ongoing safety and functionality.
Space Considerations: Traverse walls require less space and have fewer spatial requirements compared to taller climbing walls.
Conclusion
The installation of the traverse wall at Wemms Education Centre was a smooth and successful process, completed within a single day.
If you are interested in incorporating a traverse wall in your school playground, please do not hesitate to contact us. If it's easier we can come to your school and complete a site survey to talk through options and costs so you can make an informed decision.